Friday, October 18, 2013

Lounging Around

During Fashion Week it isn’t only what’s being shown in the tents that interest me. Sometimes the lounges offer more interesting designer collections in a setting that makes checking out the merchandise up close and personal easier to focus on.

Papyrus knows: You need the right cards for lounge life!

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

Ebay - Buy It Now, Lounge Life!

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

While I did find many cosmetic/skin care brands on my travels I want to wait till I have a chance to personally try each one out and give you my input. That said, there were some accessory collections that caught my eye and I feel are worth mentioning. D’ANDREA handbags were on the classic side but with a contemporary edge that I found appealing. The chain handled leather bags with quilted angled flaps come in a host of fresh spring bright colors that will add zip to any outfit. Best of all, this family owned firm makes its bags here in the good old U.S.A.

D'Andrea Handbags at GBK
Lounge

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

I chanced upon an interesting luxury handbag line called DB that stands for Diana Bousso a Dakar, Africa-based designer. Her handmade premium leather, suede lined bags are worth the price. Particularly striking is her high fashion take on the backpack done in a combination of ostrich, croc and calfskin. Each is accented with the gold hardware initials db on the front. This isn’t your everyday backpack, but a true couture item that will last a lifetime. Check out more at www.dakarboutique.com.

Every season there are jewelry designers that I feel compelled to investigate and SATYA showcased some beautifully delicate pieces from the Peacock and Winter Solstice collections while CYNTHIA GALE’s jewelry is aimed at the customer who prefers her modern, eclectic art inspired pieces done in sterling silver.

Satya at GBK Lounge

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

Cynthia Gale at GBK Lounge

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

LULU AVENUE designs by Jude Frances is strictly for the fashion forward customer whose up on the latest trends. I especially covet her wrapped leather bracelets worn in multiples but there’s so much more to choose from.

Lulu Avenue jewelry at GBK
Lounge

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

DEE HILFIGER (yes that’s Tommy’s wife) showed up with her latest collection of rtw handbags and footwear for HSN, the shopping network. I was blown away by the tartan plaid, crested slippers that could easily hold their own against Ralph Lauren. My love affair with plaid is well known among my friends so naturally I gravitated towards Hilfiger’s coordinating handbags that are roomy and very stylish and beautifully finished inside and out. Keep on the lookout for this designer brand.

Dee Hilfiger at HSN Lounge

Photo Credit: M. McKenzie

Next time I’ll let you in on some of my beauty picks. Until then, C&C.